SUPERMARKET giant Tesco has confirmed the building of its Tenbury store will begin next week.

Following demolition work on the derelict Cattle Market site, construction of a new store will begin on Bank Holiday Monday, August 29 with a completion date expected in February.

The original idea of a Tesco supermarket in the town was first raised at a public meeting in the town, and the company committed to the store being built, which it is claimed will bring up to 150 new full and part-time jobs.

Opponents to the store have previously voiced concerns that Tesco, with its huge buying power, will mark the death knell for many of Tenbury’s smaller independent shops.

But supporters of the project, including Tony Penn who represents Tenbury on Malvern Hills District Council, believe that Tesco will bring much needed new jobs as well as providing a boost to the town.

During construction work the path running along the river will be closed and will be improved as part of the planning permission commitments.

Harriett Baldwin, the MP for West Worcestershire that includes Tenbury, has welcomed the news.

"I am glad that after all these years of uncertainty and indecision, Tesco have now made their plans clear," the MP said.

"It will end the blight on the site which led to vandalism.

“The planning permission contained commitments to the community which our local councillors have asked for on behalf of residents.

"Tenbury has a wide range of wonderful shops which offer local residents lots of choice."